Good books for learning photoshop for digital artist?

[forestrnger]

I was wondering what are some good books for learning about creating art through the use of photoshop. I currently have very little experience using photoshop and don't own a tablet.

Any suggestions on what photoshop version to buy, decent tablets, and literature about photoshop that would help me sharpen my lack of photoshop skills would be great.

I want to learn the basics that are necessary and required by videogame developers for prospective employees.

[Maizan]

Not sure about books but you might wanna check out a magazine called Imagine FX. If you like to paint sci fi and fantasy stuff then this is right up your ally. Also it comes with a cd with brushes and textures and tutorials. The website is also full of nice downloads and info: http://www.imaginefx.com/

[forestrnger]

Thanks, I'll check that out.

[Flake]

Photoshop hasn't changed much since the mid 90s. You draw on bits of transparent plastic or tracing paper. You can learn everything you need from the help files.

Worry more about basic art principles, with that in mind I'd suggest Loomis and Speed.

Speed-
http://www.gutenberg.org/etext/14264

Loomis-
http://acid.noobgrinder.com/Loomis/

Photoshop is just a tool, a fancy pencil.